Search continues for couple accused of abusing boy

Grandmother says couple 'need to pay'

The search is continuing for a Plaistow couple accused of abusing a 3-year-old boy.

Investigators said they have received a lot of tips on the whereabouts of Jessica Linscott and her boyfriend, Roland Dow, but they haven't been located.

Meanwhile the boy, James Nicholson, is recovering from a serious head injury and severe burns. Helen Nicholson, his grandmother on his deceased father's side, said the couple needs to pay. She said she's at wit's end with the two still on the loose, but she said her grandson appears to be doing well and is in good spirits.

"His vision's clear," she said. "He told me not to be afraid of his hat (the medical dressings on his head). He said, 'It's not a monster hat, Nana. It's just a hat they have on me.'"

Helen Nicholson spoke with WMUR's sister station WCVB on Sunday. She said James hasn't said anything to her about how he was hurt.

"He's all wrapped up," she said. "From his hand to his arm, he was burned. His whole head is covered with the gauze."

On Monday, police investigated two reported sightings of the couple in Lowell and Revere, Mass., but they determined both were unfounded.

"I wish I could go all over the place and search and search, but if the cops can't find them, I can't find them," Nicholson said.

Police said reports from people claiming to have seen Linscott and Dow are pouring in from across Massachusetts, but actual leads in the case appear to be few.

Nicholson said she hopes attention continues to focus on the two until they are caught.

"They both need to pay for this, and they both need to pay big," she said. "This is not a small case. They tried to kill my grandson."

Nicholson said she believes James will be OK, but he may need to have another brain surgery.

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